This chapter highlights some important themes from the previous chapters in this volume that will assist institutional research professionals and other higher education leaders interested in expanding use of facilities data in planning and decision making: (1) What you don't know can hurt you; (2) Operational systems are not designed to support ad…

The origins and range of applications of the academic matrix, or ICLM (Induced Course Load Matrix), are described by its originator. Its identification of interrelations among student majors and their course preferences makes it useful for academic planning and curriculum reviews, particularly in simulation models for exploring costs, personnel,…

Noting that mathematical modeling is a relatively new phenomenon in higher education and that much can be learned from the misdirections and mistakes that characterize modeling in general, the author describes major criticisms of modeling and suggests improvements, particularly in communication between modelers and potential model users. (JT)

Reviews arguments for and against the use of analytical modeling systems in higher education and presents findings of a national survey of user perceptions of frequently used modeling systems: CAMPUS, PLANTRAN, RRPM, and SEARCH. Concludes greatest needs are for user education, feedback to model builders, and institutional commitment to…

Discusses the status of modeling efforts to predict impact of different educational access and support policies and identifies pitfalls involved in using simulation models for state and national educational planning. Concludes that few goals held for large-scale models have been achieved. Points up needs for improvement, e.g. more information at…

Noting the disappointing results of past experimentation with computer modeling technology in higher education, the author discusses developments which promise potential: communication between model builders and users, interaction between large- and small-scale models, interface with operating data systems, emphasis on outcomes, and continued…

A review of the elementary ideas that are fundamental to most higher education resource models and necessary for understanding model-supported cost analyses. Analytic constructs providing information for policy decisions include the elementary model, the fundamental cost model, and the instructional cost index. (JT)

Computer-based information systems have evolved from emphasizing data processing to providing full and flexible support for management. They have moved from providing mere data to providing a medium for representing knowledge wherein managers can analyze data, formulate ideas, structure arguments, and building models. (Author/MLW)